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“Reading in Bloom has been running for over 30 years and while some faces have changed on the committee, we are very much a family.

“It’s a love of Reading and a drive for making the town nicer for everyone that glues us together.

"And I feel very proud of that, and what we achieve, and all the local organisations and residents that support us.

“All of the committee put so much effort into the competition each year, not just time and energy but resources as well in some cases.

Reading in Bloom chair Sue Owen (seated on the “grass” sofa) at the launch of this year’s In Bloom competition. Also pictured are Reading in Bloom committee members (standing) and Ashraf Nabih who supports the awards evening (Image: UGC TMS)

“It would be amazing for them to be recognised for the work they do.

"They won’t be used to being recognised or praised but I’m sure all the people who enter or sponsor the competition each year will support me in their nomination, and appreciate the work of In Bloom.”

Ms Owen explained that everything the committee does to make Reading “a more attractive place to live for residents and visitors alike” is privately funded.

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Pride of Reading Awards 2017

“And that includes installing hanging baskets on both of the Thames’ bridges, encouraging business to get involved, and running a Schools Challenge to recognise all the amazing work being done by schools to get youngsters involved in growing (and eating) their own food.

“This is really important when so many children don’t have access to gardens.”

On the annual In Bloom competition, she added: “There's no money to give out big cash prizes but In Bloom recognises some of the loveliest front gardens in Reading - the ones that lift your spirits when you walk past them.

“People from all backgrounds sit on the committee - some of them have been involved for many years - and it’s just this sort of voluntary community spirit that helps to make Reading a nicer place to be for everyone.

“As well as residents, pubs, restaurants, business parks, hotels, and shopping centre all enter and all contribute to the success of the annual events.

“The committee really deserves some recognition, and I'm proud to be part of them.”